5G is here in Nigeria and it means faster downloads, smoother video calls, and stronger internet for the typical busy Lagos and Abuja life. But not every phone can use it. Before you spend money on a 5G SIM or data plan, you need to be 100% sure your device supports 5G.
This guide will show you step-by-step how to check if your phone supports 5G in Nigeria, with practical examples of common phone models, SIM tips, and network coverage realities.
At The Phonepreneur Global, we don’t only sell phones, we also guide Nigerians to make the smartest tech decisions. We deliver nationwide, with free delivery on Lagos Mainland orders above ₦500,000.
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1. Check in Your Phone’s Settings
The easiest way to confirm is inside your phone’s network settings.
On Android:
Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → Preferred Network Type.
If you see 5G listed (sometimes shown as LTE/5G/4G), your phone supports it.
On iPhone:
Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Mobile Data Options → Voice & Data.
If 5G is listed (5G Auto or 5G On), your iPhone is 5G-ready.
NOTE: Samsung Galaxy S20+, Redmi Note 13 Pro, iPhone 12 upwards all show 5G in settings.
2. Check Your Phone’s Model Number Online
Some Nigerian phones may not show 5G if the software isn’t updated. To be sure:
Find your model number under Settings → About Phone.
Type it into Google with “5G support” (e.g., “Redmi Note 13 model number 5G support”).
Don’t want the stress? Chat with us at The Phonepreneur, send your phone model, and we’ll confirm instantly.
3. Confirm Your SIM Card & Network
Even if your phone supports 5G, you need the right SIM and coverage.
MTN & Airtel are leading the rollout in Nigeria.
5G currently works mostly in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and select test zones.
Some people may need to upgrade their SIM at a service center before it works.
Pro tip: Dial your provider’s shortcode or visit their 5G page to check if your SIM is ready. For MTN dial *123#, for Airtel dial *121#, for Glo dial *777#, and for 9mobile dial *200#. You can also confirm directly inside their mobile apps.
4. Nigerian Phone Quick Guide
Here’s a shortcut to know if your phone likely supports 5G:
iPhones: 5G starts from iPhone 12 and newer (12, 13, 14, 15, 16. 17).
Samsung: Galaxy S20 series and above support 5G.
Xiaomi / Redmi: Most Note 12, Note 13, and Pro series support 5G.
Tecno & Infinix: Only latest 2024/2025 high-end releases may have 5G.
Itel: Most Itel phones are still 4G only.
5. Use Official Websites
Samsung Nigeria — Lists Galaxy models and their 5G status.
Apple Nigeria — Shows which iPhones support 5G (iPhone 12 upward).
Xiaomi Global — Check “Network” section for Redmi and Xiaomi devices.
Or make it simple: Talk to The Phonepreneur. Send us your model, and we’ll confirm if it’s 5G-ready in Nigeria.
Rounding Off….
Don’t waste money buying a 5G SIM or phone without checking first. Many Nigerians assume all new phones are 5G-ready but that’s not true. Use your settings, model number, SIM details, and the quick phone guide above to confirm.
At The Phonepreneur Global, we sell original 5G-ready devices that are tested, trusted, and delivered nationwide. We’re open Monday–Friday (9am–6pm) and Saturdays too.
Shop 5G Phones Now
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